Crash Course Theater

England's Sentimental Theater

This week, we're headed back to England to learn about Sentimental Comedies. They weren't that funny, but they were definitely sentimental. The people of England were shaking off the Restoration hangover, and bawdy plays no longer had a place. In fact, there wasn't a place for much of any drama, as only two theaters were licensed to present plays. Rules and regulations everywhere, y'all.

More Episodes

Zola, France, Realism, and Naturalism

19th century playwrights remade the French theater – first with Realism, then Naturalism.

Race Melodrama and Minstrel Shows

19th century racism contributed to a unique and troubling performance culture in America.

North America Gets a Theater...Riot

How did American theater develop after the Revolutionary War?

Other Shows You May Enjoy